Cargo vans are the fleet vehicles of choice for most trade organizations. Their enclosed, spacious interiors keep tools and equipment safe from theft and weather while allowing for accessibility and an array of storage configurations.
However, with the microchip shortage limiting fleet access to cargo vans, many are looking for alternatives.
We are suggesting to certain customers that they consider trucks.
With a truck cap installed and a custom storage solution configured, trucks can be a viable option for many trade organizations.
Let’s Start with the Truck Cap
All truck manufacturers sell a variety of truck cap options. Once installed, the truck bed seals the interior from exposure to the elements and those looking to steal your equipment.
You can also purchase truck caps with or without windows. Depending on your priorities, this enables you:
- Stop passersby from checking out what’s stored in your truck (no windows).
- Display larger graphics on the side of your truck (no windows).
- Let additional light in to make finding tools and parts easier (with windows).
In addition, the side panels and back hatch can serve as doors into the truck bed. Combined with the right shelving system, these panels can give your crews access to stored items without entering the truck.
Storage
Adrian Steel offers many customizable shelving system designs. This is important because not all truck cap dimensions are the same, not to mention the need to account for the wheel well placement and bed length.
Fortunately, the proper shelving selection and configuration can maximize storage space within the truck bed and make tools and parts easily accessible from in the bed or outside of the truck.
Further organize your shelves with dividers, drawers, bins, and more.
Accessibility
The biggest drawback of the truck alternative is getting into the truck bed itself, especially for older crew members. Truck beds tend to be higher than cargo van floors without the availability of a railing or door to hoist yourself up.
Not to mention, the cargo area height tends to be lower, making it harder to move around without cracking your head on something or knocking things over as you turn around.
Bed Trays
Fortunately, truck bed sliding trays are available, like the CargoGlide system from DECKED or CargoGlide’s Bed Slide.
These truck bed sliding trays allow your crews to pull the truck bed contents out, making everything reachable from ground level.
Drawer Systems
DECKED also offers a truck bed drawer system. This innovative solution includes two large drawers underneath a durable deck plate. The drawers run the length of the truck bed and pull out easily so crews can reach everything stored within.
The draws can also be set up with partitions, bins, and other organizational elements to keep everything in its place, even when driving over rough terrain.
When closed, the drawers can be locked to prevent theft. They are also sealed off from the elements, meaning tools and equipment can be left outside in any weather.
Let’s Talk Truck Alternatives
Don’t limit your crews while you wait months (or even years) for new work vans. Let’s schedule a time to discuss different work truck cargo management solution options.